Upscale Style and More Performance Before talking road test details, I just need to say that I find Volvo's interiors to be among the most attractive and logically laid-out of any mass produced vehicle, regardless of pedigree or price. In the recently updated
S80, form and function come together like peanut butter and toast, or bacon and eggs - it's just that good.
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| Form and function come together at a superb level in the new Volvo S80. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Volvo's reputation for
safety is even more renowned - and that's notoriety that every car company ought to strive for. But it wasn't until the introduction of the 1999 S80 that the Swedish brand developed a reputation for style. The S80 broke Volvo's square as a brick design language, which drew much criticism from many journalists and a large segment of the motoring public. I must say though, that I'd always admired Volvo's courage for being unique in the styling department; there is no mistaking a 740 for a Ford Taurus!
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| When it was first introduced in 1999, the S80 broke Volvo's square as a brick design language. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Now that you've conjured up an image of the ovoid midsize sedan's lines, let's compare the 2004 Taurus to the latest S80 in terms of size. Believe it or not, the substantial feeling Volvo requires approximately 7 fewer inches of curb space in order to parallel park. In spite of the Volvo's brevity, its wheelbase is close to 1.5 inches longer than that of the Taurus. The elongated wheelbase, relative to the vehicle's overall length, serves the S80 well. Not only does it improve handling by reducing the front and rear overhangs; it enables interior dimensions similar to those of the Taurus. But that's where the comparisons come to a screeching halt.
